Atmospheric water generator system and method

ABSTRACT

Atmospheric water generators, systems and methods are presented involve user authentication, recording and tracking of water volumes dispensed by respective users over periods of various lengths, controlling component noise level and timing, and cleaning, heating and cooling the collected water more efficiently. The generators may be placed in network communication with other such generators to exchange water availability information therewith, or may communicate with a central server element by way of LAN, Internet, cell tower, peer-to-peer mesh or satellite. Information is conveyed to the user regarding the amount of water they consume from the water generators, and their resulting positive impact on the environment. Water dispensing data may be shared on the users&#39; social media accounts, or used as inputs for competitions or games in order to further engage the user. User authentication may be accomplished by way of biometrics or an RFID/NFC tag embedded in the user&#39;s water vessel.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/209,994 filed Dec. 5, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/712,037 filed Sep. 21, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No.10,220,330, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/217,971 filed Jul. 23, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,795,895, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/787,747 entered onOct. 28, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,561,451, which is a U.S. NationalStage of International Application No. PCT/US14/59778, filed on Oct. 8,2014, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.61/888,470 filed Oct. 8, 2013, and U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 61/984,723 filed Apr. 25, 2014 All of the above-identifiedapplications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties asthough fully and completely set forth herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to devices for capturingatmospheric water and dispensing such water in potable form. Moreparticularly, the present invention relates to portable atmosphericwater generators with features directed to improving efficiency,temperature control and noise control, and facilitating userinteractivity.

BACKGROUND

Systems for converting atmospheric moisture into potable drinking waterhave existed for decades. However, widespread consumer acceptance ofsuch systems is still lacking, largely due to their operationalinefficiencies, noise, concerns with cleanliness, and a general lack ofuser engagement. One primary challenge with portable atmospheric watergenerators (AWGs) has been ensuring that the water dispensed from themachine is potable. Early versions of portable AWGs for drinking waterapplications relied on various forms of filtration and recirculation asthe primary means of controlling bacterial growth.

What is needed is an improved portable atmospheric water generator whichproduces cleaner water at desired temperatures and humidity levels moreefficiently, includes convenient noise and energy control functionality,all while engaging the user in a manner which ensures their continueduse of the machine.

SUMMARY

Certain deficiencies of the prior art are overcome by the provision ofatmospheric water generators, systems and methods in accordance with thepresent invention. Embodiments provide more efficient water heating andcooling, substantially improved bacteriostatic features, the ability toconveniently control noise and energy consumption, and components andprocesses to engage and motivate the user. Certain features andfunctionality discussed herein may be as applicable to large industrialor commercial AWGs as they are to portable (e.g., home/office) versions.

Embodiments allow users to be recognized by the generator, byauthenticating either before or after dispensing water. Userauthentication may be verified with the machine database or a cloudservice in network communication with the generator. Water dispensinginformation may be added to the user hydration profile and synced withcloud services. Analysis services may provide behavioral or healthinsight to users based on water consumption information. Such analysismay be sent to the user based on their pre-selected notificationpreferences or sold to third party services such as ad services ordirect marketers.

The user profile authentication systems of the present invention may beactive or passive. Active authentication may rely upon a dedicatedaction to authenticate, for example, entering a username and password.In contrast, passive authentication may be integrated with the dispenseritself, for example, by using finger print scanners integrated into thedispense buttons or via RFID/NFC tags attached or integrated into theuser's water vessel. Authentication of a particular user may modifymachine behavior, for example, to provide customized water viapre-selected temperature control or pre-selected additives.

In embodiments of the invention, users' profiles may be integrated withvarious social media platforms to facilitate behavior sharing, socialmarketing or to modify behavior by way of presenting healthy challenges.The user's dispensation may optionally by posted to social media sites.Embodiments enable users to challenge one another to achieve usagestatistics such as ounces consumed this week, bottles saved this month,and the like. Such posts, challenges, or resulting comments may beintegrated into the various interfaces (e.g., machine, mobile, web)which form art of or are associated with embodiments of the presentinvention

Embodiments of the portable atmospheric water generator described hereinmay report service-related machine usage information including filterlifespan to cloud services for analysis. Machine servicing requirementsmay be sent to the client or to service personal if automatic schedulingis requested by the client.

In embodiments, scheduling interfaces on the machine, mobile app, andwebsite allow an administrator to modify water generation times.Analysis services may use this information to suggest generationscheduling adjustments or confirm ideal machine placement based onexpected water output versus actual output experienced by the client.

The generator may be branded or customized to, for example, meet theindividual needs of the client. Such customization may be managed viamobile or web interfaces. The generator may periodically update itsfunctionality using, for example, Wi-Fi or cellular technologies.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further advantages of the present invention may become apparent to thoseskilled in the art with the benefit of the following detaileddescription of the preferred embodiments and upon reference to theaccompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a system in accordance with thepresent invention, illustrating an ozone generation and deliveryapproach;

FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic perspective view of one example AWG system inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a further diagrammatic perspective view of the system of FIG.2;

FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic perspective view illustrating various internalcomponents of the system of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a side view of the system and configuration shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic front view of the example system of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view taken at line 7-7 of FIG.6;

FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic side view of the example system of FIG. 2;

FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view taken at line 9-9 of FIG.8;

FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic view illustrating inner components of afurther alternative embodiment in accordance with the aspects of presentinvention;

FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic chart illustrating one example of therelationship between a dispensing period, actuation periods, actuatedvolumes and respective user aggregate volumes;

FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic block diagram depicting network connectivityof one or more non-limiting embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a flow diagram that illustrates the logic and functionalityof the heater control algorithm described herein, wherein an overview isdisplayed to the user with water-related facts and further informationon how to interact with generator;

FIG. 14 is a flow diagram that illustrates the logic and functionalityof the variable pulse control heating algorithm described herein;

FIG. 15 is a flow diagram that illustrates the logic and functionalityof the heating power output interrupt mode described herein;

FIG. 16 is a diagram that illustrates a circuit, which is useful for theheating and cooling control modules described herein;

FIG. 17 is a schematic view of the system architecture in accordancewith certain embodiment of the present invention, in which amultiplicity of AWGs are in network communication with a calendaringprogram operating from another node in the network;

FIG. 18 is a schematic view of the system architecture in accordancewith certain embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a Dashboard forpresentation on the display screen of a portable atmospheric watergenerator;

FIG. 20 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a Dashboard withNavigation Screen open;

FIG. 21 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a My Hydration Promptscreen, which includes the volume of water just dispensed, averageconsumption for all user of the generator, and open screen space in thelower left for co-branding opportunities;

FIG. 22 is a wireframe view of a further embodiment of a My HydrationPrompt screen;

FIG. 23 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a User Hydration Profilein Login State screen;

FIG. 24 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a User's HydrationProfile screen, which includes water-consumption related motivationalmessages, personal water tracking information and the option to add thecurrently-generated consumption data to the user's profile for inclusionin their continued water tracking;

FIG. 25 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a User's HydrationProfile in Saved State screen;

FIG. 26 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a Create User HydrationProfile—Name Entry State screen;

FIG. 27 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a Create User HydrationProfile—PIN Entry State screen;

FIG. 28 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a Private HydrationProfile screen, which presents user water-consumption goal and trackinginformation hidden from all other users;

FIG. 29 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a Global Water Causesscreen;

FIG. 30 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a Global Water Causescreen;

FIG. 31 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a Video Viewing Overlayscreen, wherein water-related motivational or educational video contentmay be presented, or advertisement and promotional messaging related toa partnering brand;

FIG. 32 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a Settings Login screen,whereby an administrator may access the controllable features of thegenerator and software app running on the computer element;

FIG. 33 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a Settings DisplayingAdmin Dashboard screen, wherein the administrator is shown settingsrelated to water generation, as well as additional machine service andwater level status information;

FIG. 34 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a Settings forScheduling Water Generation Daily screen, whereby an administrator mayschedule water generation directly at the generator with the enteredparameters being applied daily unless overridden;

FIG. 35 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a Settings forOverriding Water Generation for Current Day screen;

FIG. 36 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a Settings forScheduling Water Generation Confirmation screen;

FIG. 37 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a Settings for ManagingUsers screen;

FIG. 38 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a Settings forConfirming Action State screen;

FIG. 39 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of a Product Supportscreen; and

FIG. 40 is a wireframe view of an embodiment of an Alert screen.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings, like reference numerals designateidentical or corresponding features throughout the several views.

Described herein are certain non-limiting embodiments of an atmosphericwater generator 100 for operating in an environment with ambient air andgenerating potable water therefrom. A portable version of theatmospheric water generator 100 may comprise a water production element,at least one tap element 144 and a computer element 150. The waterproduction element is preferably configured to transform water vaporfrom the ambient air to liquid water. Depending upon the particularembodiment of the generator 100, the respective water production elementmay comprise a dehumidification subsystem, a desiccant subsystem, anadiabatic subsystem, some combination or the like

A dehumidification subsystem typically involves a compressor 114circulating refrigerant through a condenser 116 and then an evaporatorcoil which cools the air surrounding it. This lowers the air temperatureto its dew point, causing water vapor to condense. Filtered air istypically moved over the evaporator coil by a fan 180. A desiccantsubsystem typically involves a wet desiccation process whereby salt in aconcentrated brine solution is used to absorb ambient humidity. Anadiabatic subsystem typically involves a heat exchanger which transfersthe heat from one fluid to another. For example, a typical adiabaticwheel heat exchanger is made up of a large wheel with threads whichrotate through the hot and cold fluids to extract or transfer heat.

The at least one tap element 144 may be in water receiving communicationwith the water production element may be user-actuatable between an openstate and a closed state. Such user actuation may not be direct. Rather,it may be accomplished by way of electronic button controls (e.g., 108and 110), solenoids, pushrods and the like. The at least one tap element144 may be configured to allow water to be dispensed therefrom when inits open state and to prevent water from being dispensed therefrom whenin its closed state. A hot water lockout button 112 may be provided toprevent hot water from being dispensed.

Referring to FIG. 11 for illustration, actuation periods (such as thoseshown at 146 a and 146 b, for example) may be respectively defined byeach length of time the at least one tap element 144 is continuously inits open state. Actuated volumes of water (such as those shown at 148 aand 148 b for example) are respectively defined by the volume of waterdispensed during each actuation period. With reference to FIG. 11, overthe course of a particular dispensing period 152, User A has triggeredthree different actuation periods (146 a, 146 a′ and 146 a″) byactuating the tap 144. Similarly, over the same dispensing period 152,User B has triggered two different actuation periods (146 b and 146 b′).As a result, respective actuation volumes (148 a, 148 a′, 148 a″, 148 band 148 b′) of water have been dispensed by Users A and B from thegenerator 100 during the dispensing period 152.

In particular embodiments, the computer element 150 may include arespective processor, memory, machine database and display screen. Thecomputer element 150 may preferably be configured to: (i) register oneor more registered users of the generator; (ii) record the actuatedvolumes dispensed by respective registered users; (iii) for eachregistered user, sum the respective actuated volumes dispensedthroughout respective user dispensing periods, thereby definingrespective user aggregate volumes; and (iv) convey respective useraggregate volumes to one or more of the registered users. With referenceagain to FIG. 11, User A's aggregate volume 154 a represents the sum ofUser A's actuation volumes dispensed over the respective dispensingperiod 152. Similarly, User B's aggregate volume 154 b represents thesum of User B's actuation volumes dispensed over the respectivedispensing period 152.

In certain preferred embodiments, the user aggregate volumes 154 areconveyed in the form of at least one of: (a) one or more standard unitsof volume measurement; (b) a degree of progress toward a pre-set goal ofthe respective registered user; (c) a degree of progress toward apre-set group goal of a group of the respective registered users; and(d) a number of hypothetical plastic containers of pre-determinedvolumetric capacity which are collectively volumetrically equivalent tothe respective user aggregate volume.

In particular preferred embodiments, the computer element 150 includes adisplay screen 102, and the conveying of user aggregate volumes 154 iscompleted at least by way of displaying the respective aggregate volumes154 on the display screen 102. By way of example, the computer elementmay be or may comprise a tablet computer with a touch-screen interface.Thus, the role of the display screen may be performed by the touchscreen interface of such a computing device.

Certain embodiments of a generator 100 may further comprise one or moresensor elements (not shown) configured to measure one or more of theambient temperature, ambient pressure and ambient humidity. In suchembodiments, the computer element 150 may be in data communication withthe one or more sensor elements and configured to: (a) calculate fromthe data a current rate at which the generator 100 is able to produceliquid water from the ambient air; and (b) display the rate on thedisplay screen 102.

Particular preferred embodiments of a generator 100 comprise a networkinterface (software or hardware) configured to enable the computerelement 150 to communicate with at least one of a local area network(LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a cellular network, a peer-to-peermesh and a satellite. Such communications may preferably includewireless communication.

In network-capable embodiments of generators 100, the computer element150 may be configured to receive by way of the network interface fordisplay on the display screen at least one or more of: (i) educationalor motivational messages relating to water use; (ii) educational ormotivational messages relating to water conservation; (iii) graphics,messages or promotions relating to a brand; and (iv) servicenotifications.

In embodiments, the conveyed user aggregate volumes may be accessible bysocial media accounts of respective registered users. Such access may bedriven by the actions of the server element of embodiments of thepresent invention, the actions of the social media servers or software,or a combination thereof. Alternatively or in addition, in particularembodiments the conveyed user aggregate volumes may be conveyable asdata inputs to a computer-based game playable by one or more registeredusers. In such embodiments, the respective aggregate volumes may havethe effect of triggering events within the game (e.g., shielding theprotagonist, making resources or options available, adding lives, etc.),and/or representing parameters within the game (e.g. speed, power level,currency, etc.). In yet further embodiments, the conveyed user aggregatevolumes may be conveyable as data inputs to a computer-based competitionbetween registered users wherein the respective aggregate volumes of thecompetitors are used as a basis of mutual performance comparison. Forexample, whichever competitor/user consumes the most water or saves themost hypothetical plastic bottles within a selected dispensing periodwins.

In particular embodiments, the conveyed user aggregate volumes 154 maybe accessible by mobile computing devices (e.g., cell phones, computertablets, and the like) of respective registered users. With reference toFIG. 18 for example, in such embodiments the mobile accessibility (e.g.,by mobile web browser or software app) may be by way of an intermediateserver element. A server element may comprise one or more serverscollocated or geographically dispersed from one another.

In certain embodiments, at least one of the user dispensing periods 152is the portion of the current calendar day which has elapsed as of thelatest dispensing by the respective registered user or users. Inembodiments of the portable atmospheric water generator 100, thecomputer element 150 may include a machine counter which is configuredto be reinitialized. In such embodiments, at least one of the userdispensing periods may be equivalent to the time which has elapsed sincelatest reinitialization of the generator 100. Moreover, at least one ofthe user aggregate volumes may correspond to the dispensing by all usersof the portable atmospheric water generator.

Particular embodiments may comprise a flow measurement element for usein determining the actuated volumes of water. The flow measurementelement (not shown) may be comprised of one or more flow sensors or flowmeters respectively disposed, for example, in fluid communicationbetween the one or more tap elements 144 and one or more correspondingpotable water tanks (for example, cold tank 126 and hot tank 128).

Referring to FIG. 17 for illustration, in certain preferred embodimentsof a generator 100, the computer element 150 may be configured to beplaced in network communication with computer elements 150 of one ormore additional said generators 100 located at other locations.Moreover, each of the computer elements 150 may be being configured toreceive respective potable water availability data from each of theother generators 100 in the network, and indicate potable wateravailability and location information (for example, which room of amulti-room facility) corresponding to each of the other generators.

In particular preferred embodiments of a generator 100, the registeringof one or more registered users enables the registered users to createrespective user hydration profiles with associated user names, each userhydration profile including respective user hydration data. The userhydration data may be accessible by the respective registered user bylogging into their hydration profile using a unique authentication ID.Moreover, the user hydration profile preferably tracks respective useraggregate volumes 154 conveyed in one or more forms, such as one or morestandard units of volume measurement (for example, fl. oz., mL, etc.), adegree of progress toward a pre-set goal of the respective registereduser, and/or a number of hypothetical plastic containers (for example,20 mL. plastic water bottles) of pre-determined volumetric capacitywhich are collectively volumetrically equivalent to a respective useraggregate volume 154.

In embodiments, the authentication ID may be readable by the computerelement 150 by way of the respective user's entry of a passcode. Inaddition or in the alternative, the authentication ID may readable bythe computer element 150 by way of biometric sensing (for example, afingerprint, iris recognition, etc.). Further in addition or in thealternative, the authentication ID may readable by the computer element150 by way of radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, near fieldcommunication (NFC) tag or the like. In such embodiments, the RFID orNFC tag may be embedded or contained in a drinking vessel (for example,a cup, mug, thermos or bottle) of the respective user. In such case, theuser's ID may be authenticated simply by using the tag-embedded vesselto receive dispensed water from the generator.

Embodiments of a generator 100 may typically include one or more dynamiccomponents (for example, components with parts that move duringoperation). Each of the one or more dynamic components may have arespective active state which results in a respective acoustic signature(e.g., noise) audible to humans. In such embodiments, the computerelement may be programmable with a noise control schedule. The noisecontrol schedule may be configured to include times when one or more ofthe dynamic components are automatically maintained in a respectivereduced activity state or inactive state. The reduced activity state maycause the respective component to generate less noise than it would inits active state. Similarly, the inactive state would typically resultin the respective component making no noise whatsoever. Examples of suchdynamic components may include a fan element 180, a compressor element114 and pump elements 122 and 182.

The noise control schedule may be locally user-modifiable by way of, forexample, a touch screen interface 102 of the generator 100. For example,a user may place the generator 100 into an instant silent mode byselecting a screen icon or pushing a button. Additionally or in thealternative, with reference to FIG. 17, the computer element 150 may beis configured to be placed in network communication with a calendaringprogram operating from another node in the network. The noise controlschedule may be modifiable by way of the calendaring program. In certainapplications, the network may be a LAN of an office environment, and,for example, when a meeting scheduled in the calendaring program to takeplace in a room in which the generator 100 is located, one or more ofthe dynamic components would be automatically placed in their respectivereduced activity state or inactive state for the duration of thescheduled meeting.

In particular embodiments, the computer element 150 may be configured tobe placed in network communication with an automated home appliancecontrol scheduler. In such embodiments, the noise control schedule maybe modifiable by way of the home appliance control scheduler.

In certain embodiments of a generator 100, the computer element 150 maybe programmable with an energy control schedule. The energy controlschedule may be configured to include times when one or more electricalenergy consuming components of the generator 100 are automaticallymaintained in a respective reduced power state or off state. In suchembodiments, the computer element 150 may be configured to be placed innetwork communication with an electric utility company for receivingtherefrom periodic or real-time power grid demand data indicatinghigh-demand times. The computer element 150 may then use thisinformation to modify the energy control schedule to reduce the amountof time one or more of the electrical energy consuming components are intheir active state during the indicated high-demand times. The energycontrol schedule may also be user-modifiable by way of a touch screeninterface 102 of the generator 100.

Embodiments of a generator 100 may comprise a collection reservoir 118configured to receive liquid water from the water production element andtemporarily store a quantity thereof (for example, before it is pumpedthrough filters 130 and bacteriostatic elements to cold and hot potablewater tanks). A reservoir UV lamp 120 may extend through the collectionreservoir 118 and being axially removable therefrom. For example, thereservoir 118 may be slidingly pulled outward of the cabinet of thegenerator 100, and the UV lamp 120 conveniently removed and replaced viaaxial removal from the reservoir 118 in a direction laterally thereof.The reservoir UV lamp 120 may preferably be substantially laterallycentered within the reservoir, so as to help maximize the exposure ofwater present within the reservoir to UV light.

With reference to FIG. 10 for illustration, a cold water tank 126 mayhave associated therewith a floater 226 and electronic water levelcontrol 224. The reservoir 118 may have associated therewith anelectronic water level controller 224 and a flat water filter 218. Aleak sensor 228 may be provided toward the bottom of the generator 100to provide an alert if and when a water leak has originated from any ofthe components in the generator 100. The cold and hot tanks may be influid communication with one another by way of a connecting tube 220.The connecting tube may connect with a hot water tank inlet 214. Anelectrical control enclosure 222 may be provided.

In embodiments of the generator 100, the collection reservoir 118 istypically configured to receive liquid water from the water productionelement and temporarily store a quantity thereof. Referring to FIG. 1for illustration, an ozone generator 188 may be configured to generateozone gas 196 routable to the collection reservoir 118 by way of anozone conduit 190. In such embodiments, the presence of the storedquantity may define a waterline 192 at the upper surface of the uppersurface of the stored water, and the collection reservoir 118 mayinclude an ozone inlet 194 for receiving the ozone gas 196 from theozone generator 188 and emitting it within the collection reservoir 118at a location above the waterline 192. In embodiments in which a coldwater tank 126 is in fluid communication with the collection reservoir118, the ozone gas 196 may also be routable to an upper portion 127 ofthe cold water tank 126 by way of the ozone conduit 190. A pressureequalization valve 198 (for example, a throttle valve) may be providedfor proportioning the ozone gas 196 routed to the collection reservoir118 and the cold water tank 126. Alternatively or in addition, awaterline limit level 200 may be predefined within the collectionreservoir 118, and the the ozone inlet 194 may be configured to emit theozone gas 196 within the collection reservoir 118 at a location abovethe waterline limit level 200.

In particular embodiments of a generator 100 having a cold water 126,the cold tank 126 is configured to receive water from the collectionreservoir 118. In such embodiments, at least one hot tank 128 may beconfigured to receive water from the cold tank 126, which is connectedto a heating element configured to heat the water contained within thehot tank 128. A central processing unit may be provided which isprogrammable by a user through a control panel. The central processingunit may be configured to communicate with the heating element and causepower to be delivered to the heating element according to a definedprotocol, wherein the protocol specifies: (i) a frequency and magnitudeof pulsed energy to be delivered to the heating element from a powersource; and (ii) a set temperature, or a set range of temperatures, forwater contained within the hot tank and cold tank.

The aforementioned protocol may further specify a rest period, whereinthe rest period is a period of time during which the set temperature, orthe set range of temperatures, for water contained within the hot tankis reduced relative to a temperature that is associated with a normaloperating period of time. The protocol may further specify whether: (a)the set temperature, or the set range of temperatures, for watercontained within the hot tank takes precedence over water contained inthe cold tank 126; or (b) the set temperature, or the set range oftemperatures, for water contained within the cold tank 126 takesprecedence over water contained in the hot tank. The protocol mayfurther specify a total power usage limitation for the portableatmospheric water generator 100.

In particular such embodiments, the total power usage limitation maycomprise (a) a specific or maximum amount of energy that may bedelivered with each pulse of energy; (b) an aggregated maximum amount ofenergy that may be delivered over a defined period of time; or (c) acombination of (a) and (b).

With reference to FIGS. 7 and 9, certain embodiments of a generator 100may comprise a cold tank refrigeration compressor 124 and a cold tank126 configured to receive water from the collection reservoir 118. Thecold tank 126 may have disposed therein (a) a vertically extendingshroud element 138 defining a lateral perimeter of a shrouded volume140, (b) a laterally (e.g. radially) extending baffle element 136defining an upper perimeter of the shrouded volume 140, and (c) arefrigerant evaporator coil 134 in fluid communication with therefrigeration compressor 124 and disposed within the shrouded volume140. The baffle element may be supported within the cold tank by apedestal element 137. The shroud element 138 may extend vertically froma bottom wall 125 of the cold tank 126. A hot tank 128 may be in fluidreceiving communication with the cold tank 126 by way of, for example, afirst cold tank exit port 129 disposed outside of the shrouded volume140. A cold water tap 144 may be in fluid receiving communication withthe cold tank 126 by way of a second cold tank exit port 145 disposedwithin the shrouded volume 140. This shrouded evaporator coilconfiguration within the cold tank allows colder water to be producedand dispensed more efficiently, due in part to the fact that the entirewater volume within the cold tank need not be maintained at the coldestdispensing water temperature. Rather, a more limited volume of waterwithin the cold tank is maintained at the coldest dispensing temperature

Referring now to FIG. 18, an example embodiment of a system inaccordance with the present invention may comprise one or more portableatmospheric water generators 100 (AWGs). The AWGs may each comprise awater production element, a flow measurement element and a computerelement 150. The water production element is typically configured totransform water vapor from the ambient air to liquid water. The flowmeasurement element may be adapted for use in determining one or morevolumes of potable water dispensed from the AWGs by users during one ormore respective dispensing periods 152. The computer element 150 may beconfigured to obtain user profile data, dispense data and service data.The user profile data may pertain to one or more respective registeredusers. The dispense data may pertain to at least one or more of thevolumes of potable water dispensed by respective registered users. Theservice data may pertain to the operation of one or more components ofthe respective generator 100. A server element may be networkcommunication with the AWG computer elements and configured to receivetherefrom one or more of the user profile data, dispense data andservice data. This network communication may preferably be by way ofInternet connection.

In certain embodiments of a system, the server element may include adatabase element for tracking the respective volumes of potable waterdispensed by respective registered users as input to a statistical orgame-based competition between competing registered users. Moreover, theserver element may run an application programming interface (API)accessible by mobile computing devices of respective users. The API maymake available to a social network account of one or more of theregistered users: (a) the dispense data pertaining to the respectiveregistered user; and (b) a respective number of hypothetical plasticcontainers of pre-determined volumetric capacity which are collectivelyvolumetrically equivalent to each of the one or more volumes of potablewater dispensed by the respective registered user.

In embodiments, the server element may be further configured to send tothe AWG computer elements 150 for display on the respective displayscreens 102 at least one or more of: (i) aggregated user data includinga total of all of the volumes of potable water dispensed by a respectiveregistered user from all of the respective portable atmospheric watergenerators during a respective dispensing period; (ii) educational ormotivational messages relating to water use; (iii) educational ormotivational messages relating to water conservation; (iv) graphics,messages or promotions relating to a brand; and (v) servicenotifications. The server element may further be configured to sendsoftware application updates to the computer elements 150.

Embodiments of a method of generating potable water from ambient air maycomprise the steps of (a) providing a water production elementconfigured to transform water vapor from the ambient air to liquidwater; (b) furnishing at least one tap element being in water receivingcommunication with the water production element and beinguser-actuatable between an open state and a closed state, the at leastone tap element being configured to allow water to be dispensedtherefrom when in its open state and to prevent water from beingdispensed therefrom when in its closed state, and selecting a computerelement. (i) Actuation periods 146 are respectively defined by eachlength of time the at least one tap element 144 is continuously in itsopen state. Actuated volumes of water 148 are respectively defined bythe volume of water dispensed during each actuation period. The computerelement may preferably be configured for: (i) registering one or moreregistered users of the generator; (ii) recording each actuated volumedispensed throughout respective user dispensing periods; (iii) summingthe respective actuated volumes attributable to each registered user,thereby defining respective user aggregate volumes; and (iv) conveyingrespective user aggregate volumes to one or more of the registeredusers.

Embodiments in accordance with the present invention may comprise, inaddition to other novel features, improvements in one or more of: (a)programmability and increased energy efficiency of the dehumidificationprocess, (b) bacteriostatic UV light design, (c) self-cleaning ozonesanitation design, (d) increased energy efficiency in connection withthe heating and cooling of the water and (e) user interface.

With regard to the dehumidification process, the water productionsubsystem of conventional portable AWGs typically operates at randomtimes of the day, for example, whenever the respective machine senses itis low on stored water. Such conventional systems may thereby generatecompressor noise at inopportune times of the day in the room where theAWG is stored (e.g., an occupied meeting space, a child's bedroom duringsleep, etc.). To address this problem, certain embodiments of thepresent invention provide the ability for a user to program times whenthe water production subsystem of the AWG is allowed to operate. As aresult, the user is able to control the resulting noise level based ontheir needs within the environment. Thus, an improved AWG system asdisclosed herein may be more suitably utilized in quiet portions of ahome or office setting, for example.

By way of example, a user may program an AWG machine so that it is freeto produce water 100% of the time Monday through Friday from 6 pmthrough 8 am, or, in the alternative, any time except a particular daybetween 1 pm and 3 pm if a conference is scheduled to occur within thesame room during that time (e.g., to ensure the machine produces nocompressor noise during that meeting). In particular such embodiments, acomputer-network-based scheduler (e.g., such as Microsoft Outlook® orthe like) may be remotely interfaced with the AWG machine such that themachine is automatically programmed not to produce water during periodsof time when meetings are scheduled in the same room. In such anembodiment, a scheduling secretary or clerk may merely schedule use ofthe conference room as they would normally do from, for example, theirown computer, and that computer (or an intermediate server, for example)would communicate the corresponding water production “blackout time” tothe AWG machine located within that conference room.

Referring now to ATTACHMENT A, certain preferred embodiments may includea touch-screen interface (e.g., like an IPad or similar tablet). Such aninterface may provide functionality aimed at dramatically increasing andimproving user engagement and more efficient system operation byincluding, for example, one or more of the following:

(a) Providing an ongoing tally or tote board indicating, for example,how many 16.9 oz. plastic bottles are being saved in the aggregate bythe host office by consuming “Air Water” from machines in accordancewith the present invention instead of water from plastic containers(e.g., 5 gallon jugs or single user size plastic bottles).

(b) Providing individualized counts whereby each office user can keeptrack of how much water they individually consume on adaily/weekly/monthly/yearly basis, as well as personal preferences forsettings, by entering their personalized code (e.g., their initials) orswiping a card or sensor unique to their identity. Traditional methodsfor a user to identify himself have involved active input, such asselecting from a list of users. Comparatively, embodiments of thepresent invention may involve passive identification, such as throughbiometrics (including fingerprint or iris scanning), through a custompassive marker (e.g. a unique radio frequency identification/RFID ornear field communication/NFC), or by coupling identificationverification with an existing marker (e.g. using the user's cellulartelephone or car key fob). Custom passive identification markers mayexist in the form of keycards or embedded within water-containingvessels to allow for automatic identification, and would allow forimmediate connection between the user and the embodiment without theneed for an active input. This immediate passive connection may increaseoverall use of the air-water-generator, increase tracking of waterconsumption, decrease time required to dispense water, increase datasecurity, and enhance overall user engagement with the device. Such afeature may encourage competitions among members of the household,business facility or office space where the AWG machine resides. Forexample, to determine which individual, team, department, or officeconsumes the most water from the machine over a given period of time.Such competition may spur improvements in the health of the participantsand encouragement of environmentally responsible behavior by theparticipants (e.g., via saving of plastic bottles). The tablet orassociated components forming a part of the improved AWG system may beadapted to wirelessly (or via LAN, for example) transmit respective datato the mobile devices (cell phone, tablet, etc.) or personal computersof a particular user.

(c) Displaying fun and educational water-related facts and messaging onthe tablet screen. For example, the user may be taught how much waterthe average person consumes per day; how much water it takes to make aplastic bottle, etc. In alternative or in addition,local/regional/national/international news, sports, entertainment andfinance may be displayed. Further in the alternative or in addition, thetablet may present emergency notifications such as national disasters,local traffic, etc.). To enhance the user experience with the tablet,embodiments of the AWG machine may be equipped with speakers 104providing sound and audio.

(d) Displaying health and worker productivity items, and inspirationalquotes.

(e) Playing socially and environmentally-responsible messaging andvideos.

(f) Presenting corporate or household messaging, such asscheduling/announcements, mission statements, household grocery lists,etc.).

(g) Presenting diagnostic information relating to the performance of theAWG machine (e.g., component failures or filters/lamps requiringreplacement). Relatedly, such diagnostic information may be transmittedto a main office or headquarters, which in some cases may be able totroubleshoot and solve the problem remotely. This approach may result inthe saving of gas, energy and/or manpower. Moreover, in particularembodiments, wireless programming of the tablet may occur remotely froman operating headquarters which communicates with AWG machines operatedby different customers in different locations.

Particular networkable embodiments of the improved AWG machine discussedherein may be configured to transmit data associated with theperformance and volumes and patterns of water consumption associatedwith respective machines. One or more network servers may be provided toreceive such data and facilitate or conduct the aggregation of such datain order to, for example, track machine usage, consumer behavior (e.g.,how much water consumed, how often and at what times) and correlate theweather patterns local to each machine with water production and othermachine performance parameters of the respective machines. Preferredembodiments of the AWG machine may be adapted to connect to the Internetby way of wifi connectivity. In embodiments, multiple AWG machines in aparticular facility (e.g., an office) may be adapted to interconnectwith one another, wirelessly or otherwise, to share data or facilitateefficient aggregation of the data from the AWG machines within thatfacility. The purchaser of the machine may be incentivized to plug themachine into the network (e.g., in communication with the one or moreremote network servers) by being offered free or discountedtroubleshooting and maintenance (e.g., replacement of filters, tank andconduit cleaning, and/or repair or replacement of machine components).Such networking may work to the advantage of the troubleshooting andservice provider, in that such provider may be able to present audio,video or still-shot advertisements on the AWG machine tablet by way ofthe network connection, and be compensated accordingly by the respectiveadvertisers. Such advertisements may be presented, for example, by wayof streaming the respective ad from an advertisement server or database,through the network and to the tablet.

With regard to the need to improve bacteriostatic UV light design andconfiguration, there have historically been difficulties in achievingcomplete exposure of UV light to large enough volume of water stored inan AWG machine. By way of example, some conventional AWG machinesprovide a UV tube through which water is pumped or otherwise flows. Thisgenerally results in limited direct exposure of bacteria to the emittedUV rays. In addressing this problem, embodiments of the presentinvention may provide one or more UV bulbs 120 removably disposedtransversely across approximately a volumetric midplane or midpoint ofthe water collection or storage reservoir 118 (see, for example, FIGS. 5and 9). Such a configuration helps ensure that a greater percentage ofthe stored water, and any bacteria therein, becomes more directlyexposed to UV light for more extended periods of time.

Historically, portable AWG machines have largely lacked features whichengage the attention and loyalty of users. For example, suchconventional systems fail to provide interactions which are fun andeducational, or which make the user feel more environmentallyresponsible through their use of the machine. Embodiments in accordancewith the present invention may provide a user interface by way of, forexample, a touch-screen tablet. Such user interface device may enableone or more of the following: (a) allow the user to create and monitor aunique “user hydration profile” which allows her to track (e.g., ondemand) her daily/weekly/annual water consumption and positiveenvironmental impact through plastic water bottle savings; (b) exposethe user to daily fun/educational water, health, educational,environmental facts which are both locally and globally relevant; and(c) display the degree to which that user has had an ongoing positiveenvironmental impact for herself and others in relation to, for example,the number of plastic bottles their use of the AWG machine has savedfrom otherwise ending up in oceans and landfills.

Certain recent solutions proposed to control bacteria growth within theAWGs have relied on the use of ozonation. By way of example, ozonatorsor the associated ozone emitters have been installed at or near thebottom of the water collection tank of the AWG. The conventionalthinking was that, because ozonation has been used in large scalemunicipal water treatment plants to treat sewage for many years, itwould be as effective when used in a dramatically smaller AWGapplications as well. Unfortunately, this may not be the case. In themunicipal water treatment plant application, the emitted ozone is morevigorously mixed into a much larger percentage of the water sought to be“treated” by way of, for example, the use of a massive venturi effectself-contained mixing pressurized system.

Contrastingly, emission of a stream of ozone bubbles from the bottom ofthe collection tank or cold water tank of a conventional AWG machineresults in the ozone bubbles coming into direct contact with arelatively small percentage of the water contained in the respectivetank. As a result, large, underutilized concentrations of ozone mustthen be vented to the surrounding atmosphere Rather, a significantamount of the ozone produced in such conventional AWG machines ends upcollecting above the waterline of the respective tank, and requiresventing to the surrounding ambient atmosphere. In order to protect theinhabitants of the surrounding environment from dangerous ozoneexposure, filters are often provided to break down the ozone gas priorto its release from the conventional AWG machine back into thesurrounding environment.

One aspect of the present invention allows bacteria growth to becontained in a manner which is more practical and effective than thesolutions previously proposed in the art. The majority of bacteriagrowth does not actually begin within the water in the collection tank,but rather on the walls of the collection tank. By way of example, waterlevels rising and falling within the tank leave the tank walls moist anddamp—ideal conditions for bacteria growth. The present inventionimplements an ozone distribution system that relies on the emission ofmuch smaller volume of ozone gas. Referring to FIG. 1 for example, inpreferred embodiments of the present invention, the ozone gas is notrequired to be emitted within the water contain within the tank, butrather at a location above the waterline in order to more directlymanage or eliminate bacteria growth on the tank walls. As a result, thebacteria growth is stopped at the area within the respective water tankthat experiences the most bacteria growth in an AWG. A pressureequalization valve (marked “throttle valve in FIG. 1) may be provide toensure that the collection tank receives a proportionate amount of theemitted ozone. An axially-removable and replaceable UV lamp 120 may beprovided in the collection tank 118 to prevent bacteria growth in thewater itself. In embodiments, a water way UV lamp 106 may also beprovided.

Moreover, because embodiments in accordance with the present inventionproduce significantly less ozone than the conventional “in the water”solutions, the production of excess ozone gas is avoided. Therefore,there is no longer a need for ozone filtration mechanisms commonly seenin the recent conventional art.

Referring, for example, to FIGS. 7 and 9, certain embodiments inaccordance with the present invention feature improvements in cold tank126 designs which allow colder water to be produced faster and moreefficiently than convention cold tank solutions in the AWG field. Arelatively small (e.g., approximately 80-Watt) refrigeration compressorunit 124 (fully independent of the primary dehumidification compressor)may be provided in communication with a coil 134 of refrigerant pipingto create a physical ring of ice on the bottom portion of the cold tankunderneath a baffle 136.

Particular embodiments in accordance with the present invention featureimprovements in hot tank technology which produce hotter water with lessenergy consumption than conventional hot tank solutions in the AWGfield. In most conventional water dispensing machines, a significantamount of energy is used to heat water once the temperature of water inthe hot tank drops below a certain level. Once the temperature of thatwater rises to the upper set point, the energy is no longer applieduntil the water temperature drops to a lower set point several minutesor hours later. Once the water temperature dropped (as it necessarilydoes over time) the conventional generator would have to crank up itsoutput to raise the water temperature to the desired level. This resultsin an inconsistent temperature experience for the coffee or teaconsumer. In contrast, a preferred embodiment of the present inventionmay implement a small (e.g., approximately 75 watt) generator that emitsa very low but very consistent energy pulse which keeps the watertemperature consistently high.

According to certain aspects of the present invention, portable AWGs,such as the one shown at 100 in FIGS. 1 and 2, are provided that includea cabinet having an exterior portion and an interior portion, with theinterior portion of the cabinet being configured to house adehumidification subsystem adapted to deposit water collected from theatmosphere into a reservoir. The AWGs include a cold tank; at least onehot tank, which is connected to at least one heating element (coil) thatis configured to heat the water that is contained within the hot tank;and a central processing unit (CPU), which is programmable by a userthrough a control panel on the AWG. The CPU is configured to communicatewith the heating element and to cause power to be delivered to theheating element according to a defined protocol.

The invention provides that such protocol may specify, among otherthings, (i) the frequency and magnitude of pulsed energy (as opposed toa constant stream of energy) to be delivered to the heating element froma power source (to heat the water contained in the hot tank); and (ii) aset temperature, or a set range of temperatures, for water containedwithin the hot tank and cold tank.

According to further aspects of the present invention, the CPU or MCUmay be programmed to execute other protocols as well. For example,another defined protocol may specify a rest period for the AWG, with therest period being a period of time during which the set temperature, orthe set range of temperatures, for water contained within the hot tankis reduced relative to the set temperature(s) for a normal operatingperiod of time (when the temperature may be held at an elevatedtemperature, when the AWG is more likely to be used). Still further, theinvention provides that the defined protocol may specify whether (a) theset temperature, or the set range of temperatures, for water containedwithin the hot tank takes precedence over water contained in the coldtank; or (b) the set temperature, or the set range of temperatures, forwater contained within the cold tank takes precedence over watercontained in the hot tank. This setting will cause the CPU to prioritizehow energy is used, when the water temperatures in both the hot and coldtanks fall outside of the defined and desired ranges.

According to yet further aspects of the invention, the defined protocolmay further specify a total power usage limitation for the AWG,including the frequency and magnitude of each pulse of energy providedto a hot and cold tank, as well as the aggregate maximum power usageover a period of time.

The invention provides improved devices and methods for conservingenergy that are used to maintain cold and hot water temperatures in thetypes of water (and beverage) AWGs described herein. The inventionprovides that such energy preservation features are particularlyimportant in those countries that place strict limits on the amount ofenergy that a home or office is allowed to use (or in areas where theamount of energy that can be used at any given time is lower than, forexample, 1200 watts). In addition to energy preservation, the inventionprovides that maintaining the elevated temperature in a hot tank throughperiodic pulses of energy, as described herein, also reduces (oreliminates) unwanted “kettle noise,” which is otherwise associated withconventional heaters for hot tanks.

Aspects of the present invention relate to certain devices and methodsfor controlling the heating and cooling of water, which is containedwithin portable AWGs. In order to properly understand the context inwhich these devices and methods of the present invention are employed,the following will provide a brief description of a non-limiting exampleof the type of AWG that may be used in connection with the presentinvention.

According to certain embodiments of the invention, devices and methodsfor controlling the heating and cooling of water may be used in thecontext of AWGs. For example, the AWG may include an exterior cabinet;an interior space that is configured to house a dehumidificationsubsystem (see, for example, 114 and 116 in FIG. 5) in fluidcommunication with a condensed water reservoir 118; a cold water tank126 and means (e.g., actuator buttons 108) for dispensing cold waterfrom such tank; and a hot water tank and means (e.g., actuator button110) for dispensing water from such hot tank 128. The cold tank 126 maybe connected to an evaporator that is configured to cool the water thatis contained within the cold tank, and the hot tank 128 may be connectedto at least one heating element (e.g., a heating coil) that isconfigured to heat the water contained therein.

The AWGs may further include one or more flow sensors, which monitor theflow of water into, and volumes of water contained within, the cold andhot water tanks of the AWG. Embodiments of the invention may providethat the AWGs will include a series of internal tubes/channels, whichare configured to transfer water from a condensed water collectionreservoir (or “collection tank”) 118 into a cold tank 126, and from thecold tank into a hot tank 128. Similarly, the invention may provide thatthe AWG will include one or more pumps (see, for example, 122 in FIGS. 4and 5), which can be operated to force water to travel from thecollection tank 118 into a cold tank 126, and from the cold tank 126into a hot tank 128.

According to certain preferred embodiments of the present invention,devices and methods for heating and cooling the water that is containedwithin the AWGs that are described herein are provided. In general, thepresent invention may comprise: a central processing unit (CPU), acontrol panel, a heating control module, a cooling control module, atleast one temperature sensor installed within the inner portion of thehot tank 128, and at least one temperature sensor installed within theinner portion of the cold tank 126. The invention may provide that thecentral processing unit will be operably connected to a control panel,whereby a user may submit instructions to the central processing unitthrough the control panel (such as interface 102). The centralprocessing unit and control panel may, in turn, be configured to operateand communicate with the temperature sensor located in the hot tank, thetemperature sensor located in the cold tank, the input end of theheating control module, and the input end of the cooling control module.The embodiments may further provide that the output end of the heatingcontrol module is operably connected with the AWG heater (i.e., at leastone heating coil), whereas the output end of the cooling control moduleis operably connected with the AWG cooling device (e.g., an evaporator).

Certain embodiments may provide that the control panel will include auser interface, which allows users to selectively control the heatingand cooling settings of the AWG. More particularly, the invention mayprovide that the temperature sensor disposed within the hot tank 128will monitor, and convey to the central processing unit, the watertemperature in the hot tank. Similarly, the embodiments may provide thatthe temperature sensor disposed within the cold tank will monitor, andconvey to the central processing unit, the water temperature in the coldtank. As described further below, the central processing unit may beconfigured to compare actual water temperatures to the desiredtemperatures that are selected by the user (at a given point in time)and, if necessary, issue instructions to the AWG heater and cooler toadjust the amount of energy that is provided to such tanks for thepurpose of heating or cooling, as applicable, the water containedtherein, until the selected desired temperatures and actual watertemperatures are aligned—or substantially aligned within a defined range(as described further below).

According to certain preferred embodiments, the invention may providethat a user may control whether the hot water temperature or cold watertemperature should take precedence over the other. For example, if theuser specifies (through the control panel) that the temperature of thehot water should take priority over the temperature of the cold water,and if the actual water temperatures in both the hot tank and cold tankfall outside of a defined range from the selected temperature settings,the central processing unit will instruct the heater to heat the waterin the hot tank through the heating control module until the actualwater temperature in the hot tank is within a defined range from theselected temperature setting (and, once the desired hot watertemperature is achieved, the central processing unit may then instructthe cooling unit to cool the water in the cold tank through the coolingcontrol module until the actual water temperature in the cold tank iswithin a defined range from the selected temperature setting).Conversely, if the user specifies (e.g., through the control panel) thatthe temperature of the cold water should take priority over thetemperature of the hot water, and if the actual water temperatures inboth the hot tank and cold tank fall outside of a defined range from theselected temperature settings, the central processing unit may firstadjust the water temperature of the cold tank as described above, beforemoving on to adjust the water temperature in the hot tank.

Preferably, however, the invention may provide that the heating andcooling units will work separately, and not simultaneously, to adjustwater temperatures, which serves to reduce the total working power (andenergy) that is consumed by the AWGs of the present invention. Inaddition, embodiments may provide that users may define the working(heating and cooling) hours of the AWG, through the control panel. Thecentral processing unit may receive, store, and utilize such definedparameters, in combination with an internal clock, to manage when theAWG will function to heat and cool the water contained therein (and whenit will not).

According to further preferred embodiments, the invention may providethat the heating control module is preferably configured to adjust (ormaintain) the temperature of water contained in the hot tank bysupplying abbreviated pulses (or bursts) of energy to the heatingelement (coil). More particularly, the central processing unit andheating control module are preferably configured to heat the watercontained in the hot tank through short bursts of energy being providedto the heating element that heats the water, instead of a constantstream of energy. In some embodiments, when the water contained in thehot tank must be elevated, the magnitude of each energy burst may beincreased and/or the frequency of such energy bursts may beincreased—and, when the temperature must be quickly elevated, theheating control module may readjust and deliver a constant (full power)stream of energy. However, when the AWG is in a “resting state” (withthe timing and duration of such “resting state” specified by a userthrough the control panel), or once the water temperature in the hottank has reached the desired temperature, the water temperature maythereafter be maintained by supplying a periodic pulse of energy asdescribed above.

Particular embodiments may provide that such features dramaticallyreduce the total energy consumption of these AWGs, while still havingthe ability to maintain water temperatures within a desired range. Forexample, when the maximum wattage usage is set at 1200 watts, the AWGmay be programmed (e.g., through the control panel) to only use 300watts during a “resting state” (e.g., during the evening hours, when theAWG is not being used), or once the water temperature in the hot tankhas reached the desired temperature. When and if a cup of hot water isdrawn from the AWG, the central processing unit may, if necessary,instruct the heating control module to supply a full stream of energy toquickly heat the water in the hot tank in such instances and, after thebeverage is dispensed, return to a “resting state” protocol. This energypreservation feature is particularly important in those countries thatplace strict limits on the amount of energy that a home or office isallowed to use (or in areas where the amount of energy that can be usedat any given time is lower than in many other countries, e.g., lowerthan 1200 watts). In addition to energy preservation, the invention mayprovide that maintaining the elevated temperature in the hot tankthrough periodic pulses of energy also reduces (or eliminates) unwanted“kettle noise,” which is otherwise associated with conventional heatersfor hot tanks.

Heating Control Logic and Processes

The above-described energy saving methods can be implemented through theuse of fuzzy logic proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controllers,which utilize a variable pulse control heating algorithm. Moreparticularly, the central processing unit described herein is configuredto drive the various parameters of a PID controller, namely, theproportional (P), integral (I), and derivative (D) values. Suchcontroller is used for the purpose of adjusting the wattages provided tothe heating element (coil) used in the AWG, in a manner that conservesthe expenditure of energy, yet is adapted to heat water in accordancewith the present invention.

As used herein, the delta temperature (Δt) value represents thedifference between the desired set temperature (as specified by a userthrough the control panel) and the actual temperature of the water.Referring now to FIGS. 13 and 14, the first step 20 of the watertemperature controlling procedures described herein may involve atemperature sensor obtaining the actual water temperature in the hottank, and then communicating such information to the central processingunit (CPU). Next, the CPU determines if the appreciation of the watertemperature is greater than Δt/X in a sampling period (e.g., 200 ms) 22,whereby X is the default temperature coefficient (a non-limiting exampleof such coefficient is X=15). As used herein, the term “appreciation” ofthe water temperature refers to the change (e.g., rise) in watertemperature over a specified period of time.

Referring to FIG. 14 for illustration, the invention may provide that ifthe CPU determines 22 that the appreciation of the water temperaturewithin the sampling period is greater than Δt/X, then the current watertemperature has started to decline. If and when the AWG is operating infull power mode, the CPU next determines 28 if the Δt value is greaterthan an S1 setting (with S1 being the first adjustment temperaturedifferential setting, as described further below). If the Δt value isnot greater than an S1 setting, then the CPU determines if the actualwater temperature is close (within the S1 setting range, i.e., less thanor equal to the S1 setting) to the desired set temperature 32. If theactual water temperature is close (within the S1 setting range) to thedesired set temperature, then the PID parameters are adjusted to a“first set” 34, as described below; whereas, if the actual watertemperature is not close (within the S1 setting range) to the desiredset temperature, then the PID parameters are adjusted to a “second set”36, as described below. In both instances, after the PID parameters areadjusted to the first set 34 or second set 36, the heating control logicwill then restart after a defined period of time.

If the Δt value is determined to be greater than the S1 setting 28, thenthe CPU instructs the heating element to activate to full power heating.In addition, the CPU determines 30 if the Δt is less than or equal to S2(with S2 being the second adjustment temperature differential setting).If the Δt is less 16 than or equal to the S2 setting, then the PIDparameter is set to the “fourth set” of PID parameters 42, and theheating control logic will then restart after a defined period of time.If the Δt is greater than the S2 setting, then the heating control logicwill then restart.

The invention may provide that if the CPU determines 22 that theappreciation of the water temperature within the sampling period is notgreater than Δt/X, the CPU will determine if the current watertemperature has started to decline 24. If not, then the heating controllogic will restart after a defined period of time. If the CPU determinesthat the current water temperature has started to decline 24, then theCPU determines 26 if the actual water temperature is close (within theS1 setting range) to the desired set temperature. More particularly, theCPU will determine 26 if the Δt is less than or equal to the S1 setting.If the CPU determines that the Δt is less than or equal to the S1setting, then the PID parameter is set to a “third set” of parameters38, as described further below, and the heating control logic will thenrestart after a defined period of time. If the CPU determines that theΔt is more than the S1 setting, the CPU instructs the heating element toactivate to full power heating 40, and the heating control logic willthen restart after a defined period of time.

The invention may provide that the CPU may be programmed with anycombination of desired first (S1) and second (S2) adjusting temperaturedifference settings. Preferably, however, the invention provides thatthe first (S1) setting is less than the second (S2) adjustingtemperature difference setting. In certain exemplary embodiments, theinvention provides that the first setting (S1) is 32.9 Fahrenheit,whereas the second setting (S2) is 33.8 Fahrenheit. Similarly, theinvention provides that the CPU may be programmed with the desired PIDparameters and, optionally, being changed as desired. In certainexemplary embodiments, the invention provides that the PID parameters,referenced above, include those shown in the table below.

P value I value D value First Parameters 15 2 185 Second Parameters 4010 255 Third Parameters 10 4 200 Fourth Parameters 35 82 250

Circuits for Controlling the Heating and Cooling of Water

The invention may further encompass certain novel circuitry, which maybe used to construct and employ the devices and methods described above.The beneficial attributes of the circuitry described herein include: (1)that it can bifurcate heating and cooling operations for the AWGsdescribed herein (based upon the needs and parameters specified byusers), (2) that it is configured to reduce the working power of suchAWGs and lower the net electricity load of the AWGs; and (3) it isconfigured to control the operations of heating and cooling elements, inaccordance with defined hours (including heating and cooling hours)specified by a user through the control panel (which also conservesenergy).

More specifically, and referring now to FIG. 16, the invention mayprovide that the heating control module will preferably employ an overzero testing module 8, dual-direction controllable silicon 9, a firstcontrol module of dual-direction controllable silicon 10, and a secondcontrol module of dual-direction controllable silicon 10, which includesa photoelectricity coupling dual-direction controllable silicon drive12, resistor R1, resistor R2, resistor R3, and a surge absorbing circuit13 (which includes capacitor C1 and resistor R4). The invention providesthat two input terminals of the over zero testing module 8 are connectedwith a firing line L of an AC power source 11 and a zero line N. Stillfurther, the invention may provide that the output terminals of the overzero testing module 8 are connected with input terminals of the centralprocessing unit.

Still referring to FIG. 16, the invention may provide that an anode of atransmitting end of the photoelectricity coupling dual-directioncontrollable silicon drive 12 will be connected with a first output endof the central processing unit via resistor R3. The invention providesthat the cathode transmitting end of the photoelectricity couplingdual-direction controllable silicon drive 12 will be connected with theground, while the receiving end of the photoelectricity couplingdual-direction controllable silicon drive 12 is connected with the firstanode T1 of the dual-direction controllable silicon 9 via resistor R1.The invention may provide that the other end of the photoelectricitycoupling dual-direction controllable silicon drive 12 is connected withan end of resistor R2 and control pole G of the dual-directioncontrollable silicon 9, while the other end of resistor R2 is connectedwith the second anode T2 of the dual-direction controllable silicon 9.The invention provides that an end of the capacitor C1 is connected withthe first anode T1 of the dual-direction controllable silicon 9 and fireline L of AC power source 11, while the other end is connected with anend of resistor R4 (and the other end of resistor R4 is connected withthe second anode T2 of the dual-direction controllable silicon 9 and afirst end of heater 15, with the other end of heater 15 being connectedwith the zero line N of the AC power source 11).

As explained above, the invention provides that users may define workingpower parameters of the heater 15 (e.g., heating coil) via the controlpanel. The over zero testing module 8 will test a zero point of the ACpower source 11, and send a trigger pulse to the central processing unitevery half AC period. The invention provides that the central processingunit is configured to adjust the working power of the heater 15 bymodulating the conducted AC power wave of the dual-directioncontrollable silicon 9 and disconnected AC power wave per second. Theinvention provides that the photoelectricity coupling dual-directioncontrollable silicon drive 12 will be effective to isolate electricity;the resistors R1 and R3 are configured to limit electricity flow; andresistor R2 will be configured to prevent dual-direction 20 controllablesilicon 9 from false triggering. The invention provides that the surgeabsorbing circuit 13 will be configured to prevent surge voltage fromdamaging the dual-direction collectable silicon 9.

Still referring to FIG. 16, the invention provides that the coolingcontrol module will include a relay KM, transistor Q1, diode D1 andresistor R5. The invention provides that the second output end ofcentral processing unit will be connected with transistor Q1 viaresistor R5, with the transmitting end of transistor Q1 being connectedwith the ground. The invention provides that the collector of transistorQ1 will be connected with the anode of diode D1 and one circle end ofthe relay KM, with the other circle end of relay KM being connected withthe cathode of diode D1 and the DC power source 14 of the AWG. Theinvention provides that the end of the opening point of the relay KMwill be connected with the firing wire L of the AC power source 11, withthe other end being connected with one end of the cooler 16, with theother end of cooler 16 being connected with a zero line N of the ACpower source 11.

According to these embodiments, the invention provides that when thesecond output end of the central processing unit outputs an elevatedamount of electricity, transistor Q1 is conducted, the relay KM circleis connected with electricity, the opening point of relay KM is closed,and the cooler 16 starts operating. Similarly, when the second outputend of the central processing unit outputs a reduced amount ofelectricity, transistor Q1 is 21 disconnected, the relay KM circle isdisconnected with electricity, the opening point of relay KM is opened,and the cooler 16 is deactivated.

To help maximize water production while minimizing energy consumption,embodiments of the present invention may contain an electrical and/ormechanical metering system which will allow for maximum water productionwhile minimizing energy consumption under the widest possible range ofambient temperature and humidity conditions. Such a metering system,may, for example, respond to the ambient conditions and cause the flowof refrigerant in the dehumidification process to decrease or increasein response to those ambient conditions. Such a metering system mayconstantly change the discharge pressure and suction pressure of therefrigerant to match the prevailing dew point of the ambient temperatureand humidity fluctuations. By way of example, if the ambient temperatureand humidity levels are low, the metering system will increase the flowrate of the refrigerant, which will in turn increase the dischargepressure, which will increase the suction pressure in the system, whichwill result in continuation of the dehumidification process withoutcausing the temperature of the evaporative coils to drop below thefreezing point of water. Conversely, if the ambient conditions (e.g.,temperature and relative humidity) are high, the metering system willreduce the flow of refrigerant, thereby allowing for thedehumidification process to proceed using less energy. Therefore, themetering system allows for significantly greater energy efficiency onthe higher and lower ends of the ambient condition spectrum.

Standard devices for air-to-water generation typically require controlto be initiated locally at the physical device, and have limitedmonitoring capability, which if available is also typically onlyavailable at the location of the physical device. Certain preferredembodiments of the present invention allow for remote control andmonitoring of the device via wireless and cellular communication. Inparticular such embodiments, the control of the device can be performedremotely from other electronic devices, and the machine's logs andstatistics may, for example, be read from any location. This furtherallows such embodiments to interact with internet-based platforms toinclude publishing of statistics to internet publishing and social mediaplatforms, as well as the ability to use the data for game behavior andgame interaction. Such published data and game behavior may include theability for users of an embodiment to post their statistics in publicfor a and to use those statistics to compete with other users on metricssuch as total water consumed, total beneficial impact to social orenvironmental causes, and energy efficiency in water production andconsumption. Respective game applications may include the ability to usegraphical representations to demonstrate goal achievement, and use ofstatistical data as a resource to trigger actions in a game environment(e.g. fuel for a game version of a race car, player turns for a virtualboard game, or player lives in a challenge). Game data would be fullyintegrated with the embodiment so the user could either play the gameswithin the machine itself (e.g., with global connection to other playersvia wireless or cellular communication, or the like) or on a separatedevice such as a personal computer, tablet, interactive television, orphone device.

Certain preferred embodiments of the present invention use a series ofhigh-quality cleaning and filtering processes, each with a very specificfunction. Before the air enters the generator 100, it may preferablypass through an electrostatic air filter, which traps and blocks anylarge airborne particles. As the water in the air condenses, ittypically passes through a collection filter that removes any largeparticles. As the water collects in the storage tank 118, it maypreferably be treated with natural ozone, or 03, to immediatelydisinfect the source water and prevent bacteria from growing inside thecollection area. The water may then move through a sediment filter,which removes any large particles or contaminants from the water. Nextthe water may pass through a carbon filter, which removes additionalparticles and ensures that the water tastes fresh and clean. The watermay then move through an ultrafine membrane filter, containing anextraordinarily fine, overlapping mesh to eliminate the smallestimpurities. Finally, the water may pass through an Ultraviolet lightsterilization station to eradicate any remaining microorganisms,including bacteria, viruses, molds, and other pathogens. After the waterhas been filtered and is ready for drinking, the generator 100 maycontinue to treat the water storage tanks (e.g., reservoir 118 and coldtank 126) with ozone to ensure that no pathogens can be introduced intothe user's water before it is dispensed.

Preferred embodiments of the present invention are adapted to attractusers, detect users, engage and inform the users, and reconnect with theusers. Connecting the generator to the local Wi-fi network or via bluetooth opens up numerous ways to attract users to the generators. Mobilealerts and notifications can be used to bring all users to the productbased on the users' consumption settings/patterns/schedules. Inparticular embodiments, if a mobile app is in proximity to thegenerator, the closest user may be auto logged in based on their privacysettings/preferences. In such embodiments, based on the user's pre-setwater temperature preferences, for example Hot (mid, low, high) or Cold(mid, low, high) when the product's physical button is clicked, thedesired water preference may be poured into their held vessel.Additionally, privacy settings could also include social media accountlogin for viral messaging of brand awareness experience.

In terms of engaging and informing the user, the dashboard experiencepreferably presents an overall status of water usage. Until the userinteracts with the product or application on the product, a screensavermode may be displayed with rotating facts and information. Embodimentswith gamification features may involve, for example, a water fact basedinteractive trivia game, with at least 4 questions. If answeredcorrectly, options to be added to a leaderboard, and spread socially(e.g., via social media) along with a brand message being presented. Agame feature may also give an additional reason for lesshealth-conscious users to engage.

While embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described,it is not intended that these embodiments illustrate and describe allpossible forms of the invention. Rather, the words used in thespecification are words of description rather than limitation, and it isunderstood that various changes may be made without departing from thespirit and scope of the invention.

1-56. (canceled)
 57. A system comprising: (a) a multiplicity ofatmospheric water generators for operating in respective environmentswith ambient air and generating potable water therefrom, the atmosphericwater generators each comprising: (i) a water production elementconfigured to transform water vapor from the ambient air to liquidwater, (ii) a network interface, and (iii) a computer element includinga display screen and being configured to receive content by way of thenetwork interface for display on the display screen; and (b) a serverelement in network communication with the computer elements by way ofthe network interfaces, and configured to thereby send the content tothe computer elements.
 58. A system as defined in claim 57, wherein thecontent has a content type selected from the group consisting of audio,video and still-shot.
 59. A system as defined in claim 57, wherein thecontent is selected from the group consisting of graphics and messages.60. A system as defined in claim 57, wherein the atmospheric watergenerators are in network communication with one another to share datatherebetween.
 61. A system as defined in claim 60, wherein theatmospheric water generators are in network communication with oneanother by way of the server element.
 62. A system as defined in claim57, wherein the server element comprises one or more network servers.63. A system as defined in claim 62, wherein the network servers aregeographically dispersed from one another.
 64. A system as defined inclaim 57, wherein the server element operates cloud services pertainingto the atmospheric water generators and users of the atmospheric watergenerators.
 65. A system as defined in claim 64, wherein the cloudservices involve items selected from the group consisting of gameengines, analysis services, user profile data, water dispense data, andthe content.
 66. A system as defined in claim 64, wherein the cloudservices include calendar services.
 67. A system as defined in claim 64,wherein the cloud services include notification services, thenotification services being based on users' pre-selected notificationpreferences.
 68. A system as defined in claim 64, wherein the cloudservices include notification services for providing one or morenotifications selected from the group consisting of servicenotifications, emergency notifications and user mobile notifications.69. A system as defined in claim 57, wherein the server element isconfigured to receive from the computer elements user profile data,dispense data or service data pertaining to the respective atmosphericwater generators.
 70. A system as defined in claim 57, wherein theserver element is configured to communicate with social network accountsof respective users of the atmospheric water generators.
 71. A system asdefined in claim 57, wherein (a) the water production elements areconfigured to transform water vapor from the ambient air to liquid waterwhen in an active state, wherein the water production elements consumeelectrical energy when in the active state; and (b) each computerelement is configured to (i) receive data from a respective electricalutility company by way of network communication, and (ii) use the datato control when the respective water production element is in the activestate.
 72. A system as defined in claim 71, wherein the atmosphericwater generators are configured to be placed in network communicationwith computer elements of one or more other atmospheric water generatorslocated at other locations.
 73. A system as defined in claim 72, whereinthe network communications are by way of one or more remote networkservers.
 74. An atmospheric water generator for operating in anenvironment with ambient air and generating potable water therefrom, theatmospheric water generator comprising: (a) a water production elementconfigured to transform water vapor from the ambient air to liquid waterwhen in an active state, wherein the water production element consumeselectrical energy when in the active state; and (b) a computer elementconfigured to (i) receive data from an electrical utility company by wayof network communication, and (ii) use the data to control when thewater production element is in the active state.
 75. An atmosphericwater generator as defined in claim 74, wherein the atmospheric watergenerator is configured to be placed in network communication withcomputer elements of one or more additional said generators located atother locations.
 76. An atmospheric water generator as defined in claim75, wherein the network communications are by way of one or more remotenetwork servers.